Krampus in Columbus 2024, Ohio

Krampus, the legend of whom originated in Germany and the Alpine region, traveled across the ocean and won over the hearts of many people. This spooky figure, adorned with sharp horns, fangs, and a grimace, comes in the form of a human-like goat with the goal of punishing as many unruly children as possible. Columbus celebrates the annual visit of Krampus with a horrifying haunted house experience, a themed Christmas market, and a traditional parade.

Columbus Krampus Walk (December 1, 2024)

The biggest celebration of Krampus in Columbus, the Krampus Walk, gathers all the fans of this Alpine tradition in a spooky procession through the streets of the city. Traditionally held on the first Sunday of December at 10 pm, the Krampus Walk kicks off at Global Gallery Coffee Shop at North High Street and continues down the street until The Magical Druid shop. This annual parade is a sight to behold, with participants wearing elaborate furry costumes, horns, and cloven hooves, truly resembling Krampus.

Krampus Haunted Christmas Experience (December 6-8, 13-15, 2024)

Held at the Fear Columbus Haunted House, one of the biggest haunted houses in the US, the Krampus Haunted Christmas Experience immerses you into a harrowing story of Krampus and his lair. Visitors find themselves having to escape the cloven hooves of the demon by walking through the massive grounds of the haunted house. The venue features several carefully developed sets, impressive fireworks, light shows, fright bites, and themed merchandise to remember your visit.

Tickets & Schedule

The experience spans from 7 pm to 11 pm on Friday and Saturday and from 7 pm until 10 pm on Sunday nights. Pre-sale tickets are available for a limited time. Pre-sale ticket costs $15,99 and is valid for one night of the experience. The fast pass costs an additional $10, while immediate access can be purchased for an additional $20.

The Merry Krampus Market (December 7, 2024)

Situated in the Warehouse District of Columbus, the Merry Krampus is a holiday market with a dark twist, bringing fear and spookiness to the traditional Christmas celebration. Featuring dozens of artisans and vendors, the market offers fright-themed jewelry, eerie dolls, gothic art, and horror decorations. The list is endless! You can grab gifts for people on your naughty list, or take a picture with Santa or Krampus. The event supports local charity Colony Cats and Dogs. Spanning from 11 am until 4 pm, the market requires general admission. General admission tickets cost $10, while VIP tickets cost $30.

Krampus Krawl (December 7, 2024)

After the market, the fun continues in the form of Krampus Krawl, a bar crawl through the most spooky pubs and taverns of Columbus. Bucky of Columbus Ghost Tours leads the procession, which consists of dozens of participants, all dressed as demons, Krampuses, folkloric figures, and gory characters. To take part, you also need to dress the part and pull out your most harrowing attire, which will inflict fear in everyone.

What to See in Columbus

While you're in the city, consider making the most of your time and taking a stroll through the neighborhoods. Columbus Museum of Art showcases regular exhibitions of local and national artists. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a tranquil island of nature in the heart of the city, with numerous plant collections and displays. Keeping with the theme of German legends, wander around the German Village neighborhood, filled with historic architecture of the 19th century.

Christmas in Columbus

While Krampus is annually celebrated in early December, the capital of Ohio begins the festive season as early as mid-November. The streets light up with hundreds of dazzling Christmas illuminations, turning the city into a fairytale. If you're planning to stay until late December, New Year's Eve in Columbus is also worth experiencing due to a variety of establishments offering specials and unique holiday experiences.

Krampus in the USA

The United States began celebrating Krampus only in the last two decades, but the festivities have quickly gained popularity and its own followers. Even if you're not interested in the folkloric aspect of the holiday, it offers an interesting perspective on the festive season and a chance to dress up once again since Halloween. Many cities in the USA host Krampuslauf parades, Krampusnacht gatherings, and even movie nights, playing the iconic "Krampus" film.